Neo-Polynesia – A Crystal-Clear Taste of the Islands

Polynesia is more than palm trees and surfboards; it’s a vast region of islands stretching across the Pacific. Known for bold tropical flavours, rich traditions and a natural love of rum, Neo-Polynesia takes that classic island profile and gives it a modern, crystal-clear twist.

The secret is clarification. This process uses milk proteins and a touch of acid to bind with solids in juices, then filters them out, leaving a clear liquid with the same flavour but a polished look and smoother texture. In this drink, clarify pineapple juice is used to bring a bright, transparent burst of fruit without any pulp clouding the glass.

And at its heart? Jamaican Overproof Rum — in this case Wray & Nephew; a legendary, high-strength rum beloved in the Caribbean and beyond for its intense aroma, grassy funk and fiery kick. Balanced with falernum, coconut water syrup and a splash of ginger beer, it’s a new-school Tiki experience that still nods to its roots.

Ingredients

• 40ml Jamaican Overproof Rum (Wray & Nephew)

• 20ml Falernum

• 15ml Coconut Water Syrup (2:1)

• 25ml Clarified Pineapple Juice

• 15ml Fresh Lime Juice

• Dash of Absinthe

• Ginger Beer (to top)

Method

1. Clarify the pineapple juice: Pour fresh pineapple juice into a mason jar. Heat milk gently in a saucepan, then pour it into the pineapple juice. Add a splash of lemon juice to start the curdling process and set aside. Once curdled, strain slowly through a cheesecloth to achieve a clear liquid.

2. Make the coconut water syrup: Combine 2 parts sugar with 1 part coconut water in a saucepan over low heat until dissolved. Let cool.

3. Shake: Add Jamaican overproof rum, falernum, coconut water syrup, clarified pineapple juice, lime juice and ice to a shaker. Shake well.

4. Serve: Strain over ice in a highball glass.

5. Finish: Top with ginger beer and add a dash of absinthe. Garnish as desired and enjoy.

Moe’s Tip

For the clearest results when clarifying juices, leave overnight (12 hours)and then use a cheesecloth or coffee filter to catch even the smallest particles.

Want to simplify? Swap coconut water syrup for ready-made coconut syrup — it’ll still deliver a sweet tropical note.

Watch this drink being made over on Instagram @moestavern_12 and try more bold cocktail recipes at www.moestavernbar.com.